{"id":452,"date":"2026-02-03T10:05:46","date_gmt":"2026-02-03T01:05:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/okinawa-tabiblog.com\/en\/?p=452"},"modified":"2026-05-09T09:29:35","modified_gmt":"2026-05-09T00:29:35","slug":"shuri-jo","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/okinawa-tabiblog.com\/en\/shuri-jo\/","title":{"rendered":"April 2026: Shuri Castle Review Today! Excitement Grows as the Main Hall Slowly Reveals its Form"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Hello everyone! Are you enjoying your trip in Okinawa?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This time, I\u2019d like to introduce Shuri Castle<\/strong><\/span>, one of the most popular tourist spots in Okinawa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Shuri Castle is a famous place that many visitors come to see<\/strong><\/span>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was once the political and cultural center of the Ryukyu Kingdom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The bright red buildings, strongly influenced by Chinese culture, are especially impressive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Unfortunately, in October 2019, a fire destroyed many of the main buildings<\/strong><\/span>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, the reconstruction has started again as a \u201cVisible Restoration<\/strong><\/span>,\u201d so visitors can watch the rebuilding process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I visited Shuri Castle again recently, I could see the outside of the Main Hall under repair through a gap in the construction walls!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In this article, I will show you what Shuri Castle looks like now, as of April 2026<\/strong><\/span>.<\/p>\n\n\n

\"\"Taira<\/span><\/div>
\n

The Seiden(Main Hall) is scheduled to be completed in autumn 2026!<\/p>\n<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n

Japanese Page<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Related Post<\/span><\/div>
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Explore Okinawa with just a tap<\/strong><\/span>! Click here to see our sightseeing guide.<\/p>\n\n\n

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\n\t\t\t\t\tExplore More<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t
\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\tJust Tap! A Convenient Travel Blog to Explore “Okinawa’s Sightseeing Spots” on …<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tEver felt lost planning your Okinawa trip? “Where should I go?” “What are the must-see spots?” \u2014 we\u2019ve all been there. That\u2019s where “Taira\u2019s Okinawa Travel B…<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Shuri Castle: Features and Highlights<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
    \n
  • What is Shuri Castle? Former Center of the Ryukyu Kingdom<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Many buildings Lost in the 2019 Fire! “Visible Restoration” Ongoing<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Highlight 1: “Shureimon Gate,” An Independent Entrance Gate<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Highlight 2: “Beautiful Castle Walls,” The smooth curves are truly art!<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Highlight 3: Beautiful and Colorful “Gates”<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Highlight 4: “Seiden (Main Hall),” Currently under Reconstruction!<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Highlight 5: “2 Observation Decks,” Panoramic View of Naha City!<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Highlight 6: “Other Highlights,” introducing all at once<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

    What is Shuri Castle? Former Center of the Ryukyu Kingdom<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
    \"30-seiden\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

    Shuri Castle is the royal residence where the Ryukyu Kingdom<\/strong><\/span> flourished for about 450 years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    It was truly the center of the kingdom, where politics, diplomacy, and sacred rituals were carried out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Another major feature is that it incorporates a unique architectural style different from mainland Japan, influenced by exchanges with China and Southeast Asia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    The red roof tiles and vivid vermilion buildings give visitors a sense of an exotic atmosphere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    In 2000, it was also registered as a World Heritage Site<\/strong><\/span> as part of the \u201cGusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Ryukyu Kingdom<\/strong><\/span>.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Shuri Castle has been loved by the people of Okinawa and visitors as a symbol of Ryukyu and Okinawa, both in the past and today.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Many buildings Lost in the 2019 Fire! “Visible Restoration” Ongoing<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
    \"30-seiden\"
    April 2026: Main Hall Under Reconstruction<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

    In October 2019, a fire destroyed<\/strong><\/span> the main buildings, including the Main Hall, at Shuri Castle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    However, reconstruction is now progressing under the theme of \u201cVisible Restoration<\/strong><\/span>,\u201d with the rebuilding process open to the public.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    From the viewing route, you can closely see the construction work and traditional techniques, making it a valuable learning experience beyond simple sightseeing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Being able to experience the restoration process now<\/strong><\/span> can be called a special moment to witness the revival of history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Now, let\u2019s take a look at the highlights of Shuri Castle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Shuri Castle Park is very large, so it is recommended to check the highlights before your visit<\/strong><\/span>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Highlight 1: “Shureimon Gate,” An Independent Entrance Gate<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
    \"10-shureimon\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

    A symbol of sightseeing at Shuri Castle is Shureimon Gate<\/strong><\/span>, known for its impressive vivid red color.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    A plaque reading \u201cShurei no Kuni (Land of Propriety)\u201d is displayed, symbolizing the Ryukyuan spirit of valuing courtesy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    It is said that when messengers arrived from China, the King himself would go as far as the Shureimon Gate to welcome them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    This gate is also an independent gate that is not connected to the castle walls<\/strong><\/span>, combining Chinese architectural style with Ryukyuan red roof tiles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    It is also popular as a photo spot<\/strong><\/span> and is a place you will want to visit for a memorable photo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Highlight 2: “Beautiful Castle Walls,” The smooth curves are truly art!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
    \"30-Suyane\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

    The stone walls of Shuri Castle are characterized by their unique curved beauty<\/strong><\/span> made from Ryukyu limestone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Since this shape cannot be seen on mainland Japan, first-time visitors to Okinawan Castles (Gusuku<\/strong><\/span>) will surely be surprised.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    The walls, built using techniques called \u201cnozura-zumi<\/strong>\u201d and \u201caikata-zumi<\/strong>,\u201d combine both strength and beauty<\/strong><\/span>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    They also have excellent defensive functions<\/strong><\/span>, allowing enemies to be efficiently repelled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    It is one of the highlights you will want to observe carefully as you walk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Highlight 3: Beautiful and Colorful “Gates”<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    At Shuri Castle, besides Shureimon Gate, there are many other impressive gates scattered throughout the site.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    While Shureimon Gate is an independent gate not connected to the castle walls, the other gates are connected to the walls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Let\u2019s take a look at some of them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Kankaimon Gate: The First Gate to Enter Shuri Castle<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
    \"12-kankaimon-kofukumon\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

    When entering Shuri Castle, the first gate you pass through is “Kankaimon Gate<\/strong><\/span>.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    It is a Welcome Gate that greets visitors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    It is an \u201cArch Gate<\/strong><\/span>,\u201d with a wooden turret<\/strong><\/span> built on top of an arched stone structure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    \"12-kankaimon\"
    April 2026: Kankaimon Gate Under Repair<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

    Unfortunately, as of April 2026, Kankaimon Gate is under repair<\/strong><\/span>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Zuisenmon Gate: Name Reflects the Spring Water<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
    \"12-zuisenmon\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

    After passing Kankaimon Gate and going up the stairs, you will find “Zuisenmon Gate<\/strong><\/span>“.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    IT is a \u201cYagura Gate<\/strong><\/span>,\u201d with a wooden turret<\/strong><\/span> built on top of the divided stone walls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    You can find the famous spring water called “Ryuhi<\/strong><\/span>” along the way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    I will introduce it later.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Differs depending on the location of the walls (inner or outer)<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
    \"30-view\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

    The stone walls of Shuri Castle are double-layered<\/strong><\/span>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    There are the Inner Walls<\/strong><\/span> (Inner Enclosure) and the Outer Walls<\/strong><\/span> (Outer Enclosure).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    The Inner Walls are older, and the Outer Walls were added later, so they are newer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Kankaimon Gate on the Outer Side<\/strong><\/span> is an \u201cArch Gate<\/strong><\/span>,\u201d while Zuisenmon Gate on the Inner Side<\/strong><\/span> is a \u201cYagura Gate<\/strong><\/span>.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    It is quite interesting to compare the structures of the other gates as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Highlight 4: “Seiden (Main Hall),” Currently under Reconstruction!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
    \"30-seiden\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

    The biggest highlight at Shuri Castle right now is, of course, the “Seiden (Main Hall)<\/strong><\/span>” under reconstruction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    You cannot enter inside, but you can view the exterior of the Main Hall<\/strong><\/span> from above or through gaps in the construction walls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Even while covered by construction walls, the steady progress toward completion is truly impressive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    It is a rare and special experience to witness the traditional techniques used to recreate this historic site.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    One of the best parts is that you can feel the changes each time you visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Highlight 5: “2 Observation Decks,” Panoramic View of Naha City!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
    \"32-Agari-no-Azana\"
    Agari-no-Azana<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

    Shuri Castle is located on a hill, and there are Two Observation Spots in the park where you can overlook Naha City<\/strong><\/span>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    The most recommended one is \u201cAgari no Azana<\/strong><\/span>,\u201d located in the paid area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    \"32-agari-azana\"
    We can see The Seiden (Main Hall) under reconstruction<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

    It is the highest point inside Shuri Castle, where you can see the whole view of the Main Hall and the castle walls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    On a clear day, you can see far into the distance, making it perfect for photography.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    \"09-iri-no-azana\"
    Iri-no-Azana: Free Area<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

    There is also an observation spot called \u201cIri no Azana<\/strong><\/span>\u201d in the free area of Shuri Castle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    It is a little off the standard route, but it is a place you should definitely visit if you have time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    From here, you can also overlook Naha City and even see as far as the Kerama Islands in the distance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Highlight 6: “Other Highlights,” introducing all at once<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    Shuri Castle Park is very large and has many things to see.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Here is a quick introduction to some other popular spots in the park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Sonohyan-Utaki Ishimon: The King\u2019s Prayer Gate<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
    \"11-sonohyan-utaki\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

    It is a sacred site where the king of the Ryukyu Kingdom prayed for safety when leaving the castle to make pilgrimages or travel to other places.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    It is also registered as a World Heritage Site<\/strong><\/span>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Ryuhi: Dragon-head Water Spout<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
    \"12-ryuhi\"
    Ryuhi: Dragon-head<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

    The Ryuhi is a natural spring<\/strong><\/span> located on the way up the stairs of “Zuisenmon Gate”.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    The water coming out of the Dragon’s Mouth was very special.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    It was delivered every day to the King, and also to the officials visiting from China.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Although Shuri Castle was destroyed during the Battle of Okinawa, this dragon-shaped stone was later found on the grounds and restored.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Suimui Utaki: Sacred Site Surrounded by Stone Walls<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
    \"20-suimui-utaki\"
    Suimui-Utaki: Sacred Site<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

    “Suimui Utaki” is a Sacred Prayer Site<\/strong><\/span> surrounded by stone walls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    It is located in the “Shicha-nu-Una” Plaza in front of the Main Hall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    It is a particularly sacred place of prayer in Shuri Castle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Great Dragon Pillar Exhibition: Pillars That Survived the Fire<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
    \"20-dairyuchu\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

    This is a facility where you can see the Great Dragon Pillars<\/strong><\/span> from the Main Hall being repaired and displayed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    It is located in the “Shicha-nu-Una” Plaza in front of the Main Hall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Zenikura: Former Storage Warehouse<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
    \"41-zenikura\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

    This was a warehouse used to store treasures and important items during the Ryukyu Kingdom era.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Currently, it is used as a rest area<\/strong><\/span> for visitors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Gama Ruins: War Shelter Site<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
    \"41-gama\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

    This is the site of a Natural Cave (Gama)<\/strong><\/span> that was used as a shelter during the Battle of Okinawa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    It is a place that tells the history of the war and makes us think about the importance of peace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    The View under “Agari no Azana”: Scenic Spot<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
    \"42-Under-Agari-no-Azana\"
    The View under “Agari-no-Azana”<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

    This is a spot located just below the popular “Agari-no-Azana.”<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

    It is located after you exit through Shukujunmon Gate and pass the Gama Ruins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    The view from here is also fantastic, offering a panoramic view<\/strong><\/span> of Naha City and the ocean.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Benzaitendo: Beautiful Small Temple<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
    \"60-benzaitendo\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

    This is a beautiful small temple<\/strong><\/span> built in the middle of a pond.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    The temple, along with the arch-shaped “Tennyobashi Bridge<\/strong><\/span>” over the water, creates a very photogenic landscape<\/strong><\/span>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Enkakuji Ruins: Royal Temple Site<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
    \"60-enkakuji\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

    This is the site where a temple closely connected to the Royal Family of the Ryukyu Kingdom<\/strong><\/span> once stood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Today, only the stone gates and walls remain, silently telling the story of its long history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Shuri Castle: Basic Info, Fees, Parking, and Access<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
    \n
      \n
    • Basic Information<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Fees & Estimated Time Needed<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Access<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Parking<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

      Basic Information<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t
      Name<\/td>Shurijo Castle Park<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      Photo<\/td>\"10-shureimon\"<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      Address<\/td>1-2 Shuri Kinjo-cho, Naha City, Okinawa<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      Official Website<\/td>Shurijo Castle Park (Official)<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      Tel<\/td>098-886-2020<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      Hours<\/td>Free Area<\/strong>:
      \n8:00\u301c19:30(April-June,October-November)
      \n8:00\u301c20:30(July-September)
      \n8:00\u301c18:30(December-March)
      \n
      \nPaid Area<\/strong>:
      \n8:30\u301c19:00(April-June,October-November)
      \n8:30\u301c20:00(v)
      \n8:30\u301c18:00(December-March)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      Closed<\/td><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      Fee<\/td>Adults: 400 yen
      \nHigh School Students: 300 yen
      \nElementary & Junior High School Students: 160 yen
      \nChildren under 6: Free<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      Parking<\/td>Parking lot P1&P2<\/strong>
      \nStandard Vihicles:
      \nFirst 60 minutes: 400 yen
      \nEvery 30 minutes thereafter: 200 yen
      \nMaximum Daily Rate: 800 yen<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      Access<\/td>1.By Monorail(Yui Rail)
      \nGet off at Shuri Station.
      \n15-minute walk to Shureimon Gate.
      \n
      \n2.By Car \/ Rental Car:
      \nAbout 10km from Naha Airport.
      \nTravel Time: 40-50 minutes.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      Description<\/td>Shurijo Castle Park is centered around the reconstructed castle and serves as a vital historical heritage site for understanding Okinawa's rich history and culture.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\n

      Fees & Estimated Time Needed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

      Shuri Castle Park is divided into a “Free Area”<\/strong><\/span> and a “Paid Area”<\/strong><\/span>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Admission fees for the Paid Area<\/strong><\/span> are as follows:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Category<\/th>Fees<\/th><\/tr>
      Adults<\/td>400 yen<\/td><\/tr>
      High School Students<\/td>300 yen<\/td><\/tr>
      Elementary & Junior High School Students<\/td>160 yen<\/td><\/tr>
      Children under 6<\/td>Free<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

      Estimated time for the Free Area<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

      The Free Area<\/strong><\/span> includes iconic spots such as Shureimon Gate, the path from Kankaimon to Kofukumon Gates, Shitanun-una (the lower courtyard), and Suimuikan (the visitor center featuring a tourist information desk and souvenir shops).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      If you are just doing a quick tour while taking photos, 30 minutes<\/strong><\/span> is plenty.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      However, if you plan to enjoy the panoramic views from the lookouts or take a break at Suimuikan, we recommend allowing about one hour<\/strong><\/span>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Estimated time for Free + Paid Areas<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
      \n\n\n\n

      The Paid Area<\/strong><\/span> includes the reconstruction site, the Nyokan-zatsu (souvenir shop), Yohokuden (rest area), the Reconstruction Exhibit Room, and Agari-no-Azana (the East Lookout).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      If you visit both the Free and Paid Areas, you should allow approximately 1.5 to 2 hours<\/strong><\/span> in total.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Note:<\/strong> As of August 2025, the dismantling of the “Suyan\u00e9” (temporary roof) over the reconstruction site has begun.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Please be aware that the actual construction process of the Main Hall may not be visible at this time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Estimated Time Needed<\/span><\/div>
      \n
        \n
      • Free Area only: 30 minutes to 1 hour<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Free + Paid Areas: 1.5 to 2 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

        Access<\/h3>\n\n\n\n